Chicken skin , also known as keratosis pilaris, are a common skin condition characterized by small, rough bumps. These bumps are caused by a buildup of dead skin cells and protein on the skin, which can hinder hair growth and result in rough, bumpy areas around the hair follicles.
Goosebumps can appear on the arms, thighs, or buttocks and tend to worsen in winter due to dry skin. While not a serious or contagious disease, they can be quite bothersome. Effective treatment relies on consistent moisturizing.
What is keratosis pilaris
Goosebumps, also known as keratosis pilaris, are a common skin condition that causes rough, bumpy areas due to a buildup of dead skin cells. This condition is exacerbated in winter due to dry skin. Treatment involves deep and consistent skin hydration.
Symptoms of keratosis pilaris
The appearance of bumps on the skin is a primary symptom of goosebumps, which are characterized by:
- Roughness and dryness of the skin, giving it a texture similar to that of a peeled chicken.
- Extreme dryness of the skin. Itching and skin irritation.
- Mild redness around the bumps.
- Kick-off skin (keratosis pilaris) is more common in winter, especially in cold weather.
What causes keratosis pilaris
Kick-off skin occurs due to the accumulation of dead skin cells and keratin on the skin's surface. This buildup clogs hair follicles, preventing hair growth and causing it to appear as ingrown hairs.
Keratosis pilaris can also be caused by genetic factors. If a family member has skin conditions like eczema, the risk of developing chill-off skin is higher.
Home treatment for keratosis pilaris
While there is no cure for chill-off skin, its appearance can be reduced. The bumps may disappear on their own in some people, and in others, they may disappear in the summer and reappear in the winter due to severe skin dryness.
The primary treatment relies on moisturizers to alleviate dryness and itching, maintain body hydration, and apply them several times a day, especially after showering, to improve the skin's appearance.
The treating physician may also prescribe medicated creams, particularly those containing urea, alpha hydroxy acids, and topical vitamin A. The doctor may also recommend using exfoliating creams and a loofah during showering to exfoliate dead skin.
Laser therapy is one of the most effective treatments for keratosis pilaris (chicken skin), as it reduces the redness associated with the condition. However, any treatment is considered temporary, and the patient must consistently use topical creams to achieve long-term, effective results.
Moisturizing creams for keratosis pilaris
- Rovamed Panthenol Cream
- JBC Cream
- Bringo Lotion
- Carbamide Cream
- Urecare Cream
- Adcopantin Cream
- N P Panthenol.
- Panthenol Cream.
Ways to Reduce Keratosis Terratica
These methods reduce its severity and improve the skin's appearance:
- Taking a warm bath helps open pores and improve skin texture.
- Avoiding tight clothing, as it causes friction and skin irritation.
- Drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
- Consuming Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids to maintain skin hydration.
- Moisturizing the skin at least twice a day, especially after showering.
- Using coconut oil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which also soothes skin irritation and dryness.
Natural Recipes to Get Rid of Keratosis Terratica
Homemade scrubs can be used to get rid of keratosis terratica permanently. It's important to moisturize regularly after exfoliating. Some natural scrubs include:
- A sugar and olive oil scrub, massaged in circular motions for 5 minutes.
- A coffee scrub with a tablespoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of brown sugar, gently massaged for 5-10 minutes.
- A sea salt scrub can be used by mixing it with half a cup of coconut oil and gently rubbing it in.
- A mixture of honey and lemon is effective in softening the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Vaseline treat keratosis pilaris (chicken skin)
Vaseline does not cure it permanently, but it acts as a complementary treatment that deeply moisturizes the skin. It also relieves dryness and roughness and reduces the appearance of cracked skin.
Can keratosis pilaris be completely eliminated
There is no permanent cure for keratosis pilaris, but it can be significantly improved by using moisturizing creams, proper skin care, and natural exfoliants.
When does keratosis pilaris disappear after laser treatment
Keratosis pilaris gradually disappears with laser sessions. Initial results make the skin smoother, and the condition improves noticeably within 6-8 sessions.
Article Summary
Chicken skin, also known as keratosis pilaris, is a skin condition characterized by rough, bumpy patches. These bumps are caused by a buildup of dead skin cells that clog pores, hindering hair growth and making it appear trapped under the skin.
The condition worsens in winter due to increased skin dryness. Treatment involves deep and consistent moisturizing with creams, along with the use of natural exfoliants and adequate hydration to prevent dehydration.